What this means in simpler terms; fires start much easier and burn with a significantly higher level of intensity.  This figures to be the most significant year, in terms of fire potential, that we've face in recent memory...and we've only just begun the season. Yesterday, we deployed 30 extra firefighters, an extra Battalion Chief and Staff assistant, to augment the Hollywood area resources. (That's 7 fire engines, and two brush patrol rigs)  We staged the majority of those resources, in the form of an LAFD Strike Team, at our NEW Fire Station 82. (Hollywood and Wilton)  One of the reasons we built this station so large was to accomplish just that: increasing our ability to attack an escalating brush fire in the Hollywood Hills area.  The additional resources give me many additional strategical options when confronted with the complexity of a brush fire in the Hollywood Hills.  To this end, I feel it would be appropriate to let you know what our tactical priorities are when confronted with a fire in the brush;

1.  Life Safety and Rescue
We accomplish this by evacuating the area ahead of the fire, and aggressively attacking the fire from the ground and the air.  Nothing is more important to me than protecting the lives of you and your family.

2.  Incident Stabilization (extinguishing the fire)

3.  Property Conservation and effects on the environment
While protecting your homes and it's contents, remains a critically important task for the members of the LAFD

How can you help us?

1. Prepare in advance. Clear your brush. www.lafd.org is a great resource for information on how to prepare for brush fires and other emergencies. Also check out: www.mysafela.com. 

2. If the LAFD orders or requests you to evacuate, please do so IMMEDIATELY.

Battalion 5 district extends from the 5 fwy to the East, to Beverly Hills Border to the West, Beverly Blvd to the South, and over the Cahuenga pass to the North.  I can't tell you how proud I am of the nearly 200 firefighter and Paramedics under my command. We all live 1/3rd of our life's at the fire station, so in addition to our professional obligations, we truly are your neighbors also.  

Feel free to use me as a resource for questions and concerns (emailing is always best) for anything regarding public safety.

~ Joe
 
Joseph Castro, Battalion Chief, L.A.F.D.
Commander, Battalion 5 "C" Platoon
1327 Cole Ave, Hollywood CA 90028
Office - 213-485-6275
Fax- 323-957-6411
Cell - 213-709-1546
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.